Taking pitches a selective process for Sox's Manto

Many of the groans heard throughout U.S. Cellular Field have stemmed from Chicago White Sox's players making first-pitch outs.

New hitting coach Jeff Manto is aware of cries for the Sox's hitters to work deep counts, but he believes that approach varies. He explained his views during a SoxFest seminar with fans.

"We’re going to play the game, whatever the game calls for," said Manto, the Sox's roving hitting instructor four seasons. "I know taking pitches and taking strikes, that works for some but doesn’t work for everyone. You analyze each situation and get it right."

Obviously, Manto doesn't want to take away the aggressiveness of some hitters. A.J. Pierzynski, for instance, batted .386 on the first pitch last season but batted only .195 on a 2-2 count and .207 on a full count.

Alexei Ramirez is a career .341 hitter on the first pitch but has batted .205 with a 1-2 count during his first four major league seasons.

Sox announcer Hawk Harrelson added: "Going deep in the count is one of the most overrated phrases in baseball."

Manto made a point to praise former Sox hitting coach Greg Walker, who will handle those duties in Atlanta.

"He taught me a lot of things," Manto said. "I have nothing but good things to say about Walk. He’s definitely a tremendous person, and I’m glad he landed on his feet. I don’t think anyone didn’t expect it because he’s such a good hitting coach."